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The former world champion has spoken out after the death of US chess star Daniel Naroditsky, describing the 29-year-old's demise as a heartbreaking event while condemning critics for mounting what he termed an "deeply cynical and illegal campaign of harassment" against him and his loved ones.

Former Champion's Response

The 50-year-old former world champion, who has faced broad criticism for accusing Naroditsky of digital foul play lacking proof, offered sympathies but rejected any individual targeting.

"Despite the tensions, I was the only person in the chess community who, observing through footage Daniel's obvious health issues a day before his death, publicly called for him to get assistance," Kramnik declared. "The ensuing efforts, right after his passing, to directly link this sorrowful incident to my name … violate every limit of basic human morality."

Kramnik said his earlier requests for examination of Naroditsky's online play had been overlooked "even with substantial proof", and claimed he would submit documentation to "appropriate officials". He mentioned his lawyers were drafting legal actions over "false accusations" that have led to threats against him and his family.

Police Findings

The demise of the grandmaster may have been the result of a drug overdose and is being investigated as a possible suicide, according to a law enforcement document issued last Thursday. A statement from Charlotte authorities says Naroditsky was discovered deceased Sunday evening and describes the case as a "Death/suicide/overdose/Sudden/Natural Death Investigation."

"On Sunday October 19th at approximately 07:11pm, officers responded to an emergency medical request in the vicinity of Colin Crossing," the report says. "Upon arrival, an unconscious individual was located and later declared dead by a medic."

Chess World Response

Anger over Kramnik's behavior has shaken the chess world. Grandmaster Nakamura called his behavior "appalling", while reigning champion Carlsen described it as "horrible". GM from India Nihal Sarin, who faced Naroditsky in his last digital game, blamed Kramnik for "causing a death", saying his self-appointed pursuit against suspected cheaters was fruitless and "totally inappropriate".

Naroditsky's Legacy

A graduate of Stanford and ex-youth titleholder, Naroditsky amassed over 800,000 followers on streaming platforms. Known as Danya, he was praised for his wit, insight and modesty, becoming a leading voice in chess's COVID-period surge. He was also among the globe's top competitors under shorter time controls, finishing ninth at last year's speed chess title event in New York.

Naroditsky consistently denied the allegations but acknowledged the toll they had taken on his psychological well-being. "Ever since the Kramnik stuff, I feel like if I start doing well, people suspect foul play," Naroditsky remarked in his final livestream.

Official Responses

The World Chess Federation announced recently it was "looking into" Kramnik's actions. "Kramnik's methodology simply is unacceptable," Fide chief executive Emil Sutovsky commented. The federation intends to commemorate Naroditsky with a memorial award.

Federation president Dvorkovich later verified that all of Kramnik's public statements about Naroditsky, before and after his death, would be referred to the federation's disciplinary body "for independent consideration".

"Human life and dignity are fundamental values universally upheld," Dvorkovich emphasized. "The chess community has always valued the achievements of GM Vladimir Kramnik, but such status brings a duty to uphold the principles of equity and consideration."

Family's Hope

Naroditsky's family have expressed they hope he is remembered not for the confrontation he faced but for "the happiness and motivation he provided others every day". Magnus Carlsen called him "a resource to the chess community", while Nakamura described him as "the best of us".

• In the US, individuals may contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline on 988, communicate via 988lifeline.org, or message HOME to 741741 to connect with a support specialist.
• In the UK and Ireland, The Samaritans can be contacted on freephone 116 123, or email [email protected] or [email protected].
• In Australia, the crisis support service Lifeline Australia is 13 11 14.
• Other international helplines can be found at befrienders.org.